Wednesday, October 29, 2008

The Milford Magazine Comes to Monroe County

The Milford Magazine* of Milford, PA held a Launch Party to celebrate the publication of their November 2008 Issue at The Shawnee Inn and Resort* in Shawnee on The Delaware, PA on Wednesday October 29th. The intimate gathering of supporters shared some meaningful conversations sprinkled with good humor and fellowship. It was great meeting some of those behind all the articles, editorials, and pictorials this wonderful publication has become known for.

Those in attendance included Amy Bridge and Michael Zimmer of The Milford Magazine*, Jason and Monica Startari, Tara J. Brinker, Robert Howell*, and Jeremy Wo * all of The Shawnee Inn*, Alicia M. Quinn of The Pocono Mountains Visitors’ Bureau, and Arline M. Smeltz. The next Launch Party for The Milford Magazine* is scheduled to be held at The Bedea and Soul Day Spa at the Hotel Fauchere in Milford, PA.

Please Explore The Milford Magazine* Website for more information and to discover more about the publication. You’ll find several photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The Milford Magazine Comes to Monroe County Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Monday, October 27, 2008

The Terry Garland Show

The ArtMusic Coffeehouse* in East Stroudsburg presented Terry Garland Show on Sunday October 26th as part of their House Concert Series hosted by Don Slepian* who also performed some pieces to calm the appreciative audience before they moved to the sounds of guitarist Terry Garland (www.terrygarland.com) as they experienced some toe tapping and hand clapping blues. Among those who partook of the event were Jan Slepian*, Arline M. Smeltz* along with Greg and Hong Waltzer*. Please Explore The ArtMusic Coffeehouse Website to discover their next house concert and how to attend. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The Terry Garland Show Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Indies Rock Moves The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented another show in their Independent Rock Series on Friday October 24th featuring bands who are on the cusps of making if big in the music industry. They included The Patchwork Quilt Fallacy*, Christian Porter*, Friday Night Parking Lots*, and Coffee and Smoke* performing an interesting mixture of folk, acoustic, and other forms of rock to please the ear an inner eyes of those who experienced the show. The evening was ended with an eclectic performance by Dreams of Fire whose theatricality and variety in styles not only enhanced the event, but brought a feeling of transcendence to many who were there.

The performers were greeted by an audience of a medium size but their enthusiasm and signs of appreciation overpopulated the theatre. Those among the fortunate were Richard Berkowitz* and Cheryl Yost* of The Sherman Theatre* and Arline M. Smeltz*. There were also a number of representatives from the media along with Lulu of Love N Music (www.myspace.com/lovenmusiclive) and Earl Kessler, Jr. whose advertising and design business creates posters for numerous events.

The next show at The Sherman Theatre* will be their Annual Halloween Party on Friday October 31st beginning at 10pm to include a screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show“ at Midnight. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Indies Rock Moves The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Theatrical Review: The Hobbit

THE HOBBIT
Written by: Markland Taylor
As adapted from the novel by J. R. R. Tolkien
Directed by: Prof. Stephanie Daventry French*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* of PA presented their Children’s Theatre production of “The Hobbit” which is based on J. R. R. Tolkien's novel as adapted for the stage by Markland Taylor. As those of you who are J. R. R. Tolkien fans know, “The Hobbit” is about the adventures of a reluctant hobbit named Bilbo Bagins who sets out on a journey to the Misty Mountains with some companions to obtain the treasures guarded by a fierce dragon named Smaug. “The Hobbit” was later followed by a more mature undertaking by J. R. R. Tolkien in a series of books collectively known as “The Lord of The Rings” which recently became popular by the films by Peter Jackson.

The play presented at ESU touched upon as many of the main aspects of the novel it was adapted from as it could in the allotted hour and half time period of the production. Most children productions are created to be brief as it‘s commonly felt longer shows would bore the children into restlessness. Although some of the excitement one finds in the novel was lost due to this factor, this production remained an enjoyable experience.

The scenery (in spite of some technical difficulties on the afternoon I attended) kept to the ESU Theatre tradition of being of a high quality to the point of becoming a character in the production by its own rite. The acting also met the high standard one expects from the students of ESU which was especially true when many conceptions of some characters created by the Peter Jackson films were forgotten by the audience attending this production.

The only thing I found lacking was some of the action seemed to stop during some parts of the play and it seemed a bit too cerebral for a children production. Yet, as I looked around toward the children of the audience, I discovered these observations on my part did not hold any importance to them. Their enjoyment was complete as something about the production appeared to touched them on a very deep level. It began to touch me as well. It can only be described as indescribable but it can be likened to the feeling one experiences during an encounter with something profoundly still creating a tingling sensation of a deeper understanding of oneself and those around us.

The cast consisted of D. E. Ausem* who (as well as serving as a Shop Carpenter) portrayed Gandalf, Smaug, and Spider, Christie Berlane* who (as well as serving as Stage II’s Secretary and a Shop Carpenter) portrayed Bilbo Baggins, Andrew M. Confair who portrayed Bert, a Goblin, and a Lake-Town Guard, Michael Demyan* who (as well as serving as the Master Carpenter and Props Master) portrayed the Master of Esgaroth, a Dumb Elf, and a Wood-Elf Guard, Shamus Halloran portrayed a Great Goblin, The Wood-Elf King, William, and a Wolf, Emily Harrison who portrayed The Lord of the Eagles, Tawny, a Spider, and a Goblin, Rachel Mack* who (as well as serving as Stage II’s President and as a Shop Carpenter) portrayed Gollum, Elrond, and a Lake-town Guard, Jessica Pachuta who portrayed an Elf, a wolf, and a spider, Angelo Rivilla III* who portrayed Bard, Second Goblin, an Elf, and a Wood-Elf Guard, and Alex Wirth who portrayed Thorin Oakenshield.

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* of PA presented their Children’s Theatre production of “The Hobbit” by J. R. R. Tolkien as adapted for the stage by Markland Taylor was Directed by Prof. Stephanie Daventry French* of the ESU* Theatre Department and Stage Managed by Erica Moschette (who also served on the Costume Construction Crew and Movement Coach) with Jenell Anne Manzi (Stage II’s Vice-President and the production’s Publicity Director) and Scott Ross (who also served as a Shop Carpenter) were the Assistant Stage Managers. The Set and Costume Designer was Yoshinori Tanokura. The Lighting Designer was Dave Dougherty* with Daniel McLaughlin as the Assistant Sound Designer. The Sound Designer was John (AJ) Scognamiglio. The production’s Dramaturg was Amanda Kalinowski who also served as the Assistant Costume Designer, The Costume Shop Manager, and a Mask Artist. The Poster and Program Artist was Greg Back* while The Technical Director was Ken Larson. The Scenic Charge Artist was Anthony Garbarino* while the set construction was done by Brandon Gibney, Gregory Butierrez, Robert McIntyre (who also served as an Assistant Electrician and Light Board Operator), and Nicholas Pulsinelli with Mark “Calvus” Carbonaro serving in the set crew. The Mask Artists were Doug Brehony*, Samantha L. Hidebeitel (who also served as a Hair and Make-up Assistant), Jennifer Feldbruegge, Katie Simmons, and Kelly Hubiak while the Costume Construction Crew were Karen Schwander, the Children Theatre Class, and the cast. Hair and Make-up Assistants were Michelle DiBella* and Joanna Reckley while Michelle Tuite served as the Wardrobe Assistant. Luke Swiereczek served as The Sound Board Operator and as an Electrical Assistant. Kelly Keegan was the Box Office Manager and Virginia Green as the House Manager.

Unfortunately, this production of “The Hobbit” by J. R. R. Tolkien as adapted for the stage by Markland Taylor has completed its run and can no longer be seen. The next The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* of PA Theatre Department’s production will be “Savage in Limbo” written by John Patrick Shanley and directed by Prof. Susan P. O’Hearn. It will be performed November 18th - 23rd in the Smith-McFarland Theatre of the Fine and Performing Arts Building. Please contact The ESU* Theatre Department at 570-422-3483 for more information and to reserve your ticket.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Bowfire Returns to The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented Bowfire (???) on Saturday October 18th in a triumphant return to the theatre delighting all who were among the large audience who attended the wonderful extravaganza. Cheryl Yost*, Bill Kelly*, Chris Conners*, and Richard Berkowitz* of The Sherman Theatre* were there to enjoy the music along with Arline M. Smeltz*, Sharon*, Gary Lambert*, Anna, Don, and Rose Busteed*, and many more.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be more of their Independent Rock Series on October 24th and 25th and their Annual Halloween Party on Friday October 31st beginning at 10pm to include a screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show“ at Midnight. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Food and Film at Kirkridge

The Kirkridge Retreat Center* in Bangor, PA held their Autumn Community Pot Luck Dinner and Film Night on Sunday October 12th featuring a screening of the film, "Secrets and Lies" followed by a pot luck dinner with some discussion and fellowship. The film was about a woman’s search of her birth mother and the results of her discovery. A variety of foods were presented and the conversations were rich in common interests. Jean Richardson* and Nancy Scheirer* both of The Kirkridge Retreat Center* were among those who enjoyed the event as was Arline M. Smeltz*.

The next Community Pot Luck Dinner at The Kirkridge Retreat Center* scheduled to take place is Sunday December 7th at 4pm. Attendees are asked to bring side dishes and desserts while a Turkey will be provided. There will also be a variety of entertainment provided by musicians and other performing artists. Please Explore The Kirkridge Retreat Center* Website for more information.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Indies Rock The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented Years Spent Cold on Saturday October 11th along with Weight of the Crown, Beside the Throne, Rosary Ligature, As Life Ends, and more as part of their Independent Rock Series. The event featured some of the best Hard Core music from local musicians which was enjoyed by those who came to experience it. Richard Berkowitz* and Theresa Woehrel* of The Sherman Theatre* were there to enjoy the music.

The next show at The Sherman Theatre* will be Bowfire on Saturday October 18th at 8pm. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website at www.shermantheatre.com for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Indies Rock The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

The USAF at The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA hosted The USAF Academy of Colorado Springs, CO presentation of their USAF Academy Band’s performance entitled, “Windscapes” on Friday October 10th featuring a full orchestra under the direction of Lt. Col. Larry Lang. The concert presented a variety of musical numbers which included classical works, swing time melodies, show tunes, and patriotic songs to a large audience of over 1000 people which included several local dignitaries who presented checks to The Sherman Theatre* in show of their financial support for its endeavors. The entire performance was well received and deservedly so.

Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* were there along with Mark Litchy*, Susan MeCool* of the Monroe County Commissioners, Laura Goss* of the Pocono Arts Council*, PA State Representative John Siptroth*, Gary Lambert*, and Arline M, Smeltz* along with Anna, Donald, and Rose Busteed*.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be their Independent rock series on Saturday October 11th and Bowfire on Saturday October 18th at 8pm. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website at www.shermantheatre.com for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The USAF at The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

An Amish Comedy Night

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented the return of Raymond: The Amish Comic* on Saturday October 4th. The large audience was treated to some really funny material which brought tears of laughter throughout their being. Richard Berkowitz*, Theresa Woehrel*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* were there along with Arline M, Smeltz*.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be The USAF Academy Winds at 7pm on Friday October 10th and The Independent rock series on Saturday October 11th. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. Due to lack of photographs, The Forwardian Arts Society did not establish a gallery.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Photography at The Jukebox

The Main St. Jukebox* in Stroudsburg, PA held an Opening Reception on Saturday October 4th featuring the photographic works of MJ McCauley (www.myspace.com/mjmccauleyda). The exhibition also included works created by the members of The Stroudsburg Art Alliance* (www.myspace.com/sbgartalliance). Please Explore The Main St. Jukebox* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Photography at The Jukebox Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Looking Deep at Artspace

The Artspace Gallery* in Stroudsburg, PA held an Opening Reception on Saturday October 4th featuring the works of Doug Gilbert in an exhibition entitled, “Looking Deep.” The evening included a performance by Hong Waltzer* upon the Zither which is an ancient musical instrument originating from China accompanied by her husband Greg* who provided percussion on various instruments. Will Daskal* were among the many who attended the event. The exhibition continues until October 27th. Please Explore The Artspace Gallery* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Looking Deep at Artspace Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

The Carnival of Animals

The School of Visual and Performing Arts (SVPA)* in Stroudsburg, PA presented “The Carnival of Animals” on Saturday October 4th featuring a variety of SVPA* dance students and animals from various area shelters. The event was accompanied by a special carnival which also served to support the shelters. It was an enjoyable afternoon filled with fun, dance, and the satisfaction of supporting a worthy cause.

Mark Litchy*, Diane Verdi*, Kathy Kroll*, and many others attended the event. Please Explore The School of Visual and Performing Arts* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The Carnival of Animals Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Joe Bouchard at The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented Joe Bouchard* (formally of “The Blue oyster Cult”) and his band on Friday October 3rd preceded by The Joe Carlton Band*. The small but appreciative crowd was treated to some memorable classic rock tune along with some new material. Richard Berkowitz*, Theresa Woehrel*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* were there along with Arline M, Smeltz* were among those who attended.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be the return of Raymond The Amish Comic on Saturday October 4th at 8pm and The USAF Academy Winds at 7pm on Friday October 10th. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Joe Bouchard at The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.